Mexitil Oral
In Depth
- Uses and How to Use
- Dosage and Storage
- Precautions and Side Effects
- Drug Interactions
- Drug Images
Pronounced: (mex-ILL-ih-teen)
Mexitil Oral Uses
This medication is used to treat a certain serious (possibly life-threatening), persistent, abnormally fast heartbeats (sustained ventricular tachycardia). Mexiletine belongs to a class of drugs known as antidysrhythmics. It works by blocking the abnormal electrical activity of an irregular heartbeat so that the normal heartbeat can occur.
How To Use Mexitil Oral
This medication may be started at a low dose in the hospital so that your doctor can determine the best dose, increase it gradually as needed, and monitor you closely for side effects.
Take this medication by mouth with food or an antacid, usually 2 to 3 times daily, or exactly as directed by your doctor. Consult your pharmacist for help selecting the proper kind of antacid. Taking this medication with food or an antacid helps to decrease certain side effects (nausea, heartburn).
Dosage is based on your age, liver function, medical condition, and response to therapy.
This medication works best when the amount of drug in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, take this drug at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day. Do not run out of this medication. Order your refills several days early to avoid running out of pills.
Do not take more or less of this drug than prescribed or stop taking it (or other heart medicines) even for a short time unless directed to do so by your doctor. Skipping or changing your dose without approval from your doctor may cause your abnormal heartbeat to return.
Contact your doctor immediately and seek emergency medical attention (e.g., call -911, have someone else drive you to a hospital emergency room) if your condition persists or worsens.
